What Is Post-Concussion Syndrome? What Are the Symptoms? What Factors Increase Your Susceptibility to Post-Concussion Syndrome?
The vast majority of people who suffer a concussion make a full recovery within two to four weeks. For some victims, though, the symptoms persist for weeks, months or even years. Such a response is commonly referred to as “post-concussion syndrome.”
What Is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
When you’ve suffered a moderate or severe traumatic brain injury, it’s fairly common that you’ll have some long-term physical and mental challenges. However, when you’ve suffered a mild traumatic brain injury, you should expect a pretty full recovery within a few weeks or a cojple months. When your symptoms persist, it’s commonly referred to as post-concussion syndrome.
What Are the Symptoms of Post-Concussion Syndrome?
The symptoms of post-concussion syndrome are essentially the same as with any traumatic brain injury:
- Headaches
- Dizziness, vertigo or balance/stability issues
- Changes in sleep habits, whether in the form of excessive fatigue or insomnia
- Concentration, focus, memory and other cognitive difficulties
- Uncharacteristic sensitivity to light, smell, taste or sound
- Anxiety, depression or mood swings
What Factors Increase Your Risk for Post-Concussion Syndrome?
A number of things can increase the likelihood that you’ll experience some level of postconcussion syndrome:
- You’ve had multiple TBIs—The risk increases with each subsequent traumatic brain injury
- You have been diagnosed with other mental conditions, such as ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) or learning disabilities
- You have a history of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or other behavioral conditions
What Complications May Arise from Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome may lead to:
- Permanent memory loss
- Long-term cognitive challenges that may make it difficult or impossible to work
- Extreme fatigue or other difficulties tied to sleep deprivation
- Challenges with routine functions of daily life
- Potential substance abuse (of pain medications)
- Thoughts of suicide
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, we understand the potential risks associated with any type of bump or blow to the head and can quickly determine the nature of your injury and the care you require. To learn more, contact Core Medical Center online or call our offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, at (819) 229-1941.
